Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir on Thursday called for a substantial increase in Japanese investment in Bangladesh, particularly in special economic zones (SEZs) and infrastructure projects.
Addressing a meeting with JETRO Country Representative Kazuyuki Kataoka at the Secretariat, the minister highlighted Bangladesh’s stable economic growth, skilled workforce, and investment-friendly policies as factors that create an attractive environment for foreign investors.
Khandaker Abdul Muktadir outlined the promising opportunities for Japanese investors in the country, emphasizing key sectors such as SEZs, industrial development, infrastructure and export diversification.
He also described the proposed Japan-Bangladesh Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) as a landmark initiative that would deepen bilateral trade ties and serve as a model for future agreements with other countries.
In response, Kazuyuki Kataoka acknowledged the improved investment climate in Bangladesh following the recent election.
He noted that Japanese investors are increasingly interested in the Bangladeshi market and that their investments could significantly contribute to employment creation and infrastructure expansion.
Kataoka cited the Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and the Dhaka Metro Rail project as examples of successful Japanese-backed infrastructure initiatives.
Both sides agreed to further strengthen the economic partnership, exploring new areas of cooperation to ensure sustainable and mutually beneficial growth for Bangladesh and Japan.
